A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving radiation therapy to treat lung cancer. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Observe for signs of infection
Examine the skin for generalized urticaria
Review laboratory test results for low hemoglobin
Monitor the mouth for signs of xerostomia
The Correct Answer is A
Radiation therapy can cause immunosuppression, which increases the risk of infection. The nurse should monitor the client for signs of infection such as fever, chills, malaise, or purulent drainage.
- Examine the skin for generalized urticaria. This is not a common side effect of radiation therapy, as urticaria is an allergic reaction that causes hives or welts on the skin. Radiation therapy can cause localized skin irritation, erythema, or dryness, but not generalized urticaria.
- Review laboratory test results for low hemoglobin. This is not a direct effect of radiation therapy, as hemoglobin is a component of red blood cells that carries oxygen in the blood. Radiation therapy can cause anemia, which is a low number of red blood cells, but not necessarily low hemoglobin.
- Monitor the mouth for signs of xerostomia. This is not relevant for a client who receives radiation therapy to treat lung cancer, as xerostomia is dry mouth caused by reduced salivary gland function. This can occur in clients who receive radiation therapy to treat head and neck cancer, but not lung cancer.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Using a bronchodilator 1 hour before eating can help reduce dyspnea and improve appetite for a client who has COPD. It can also facilitate oxygen delivery to the tissues and prevent hypoxia.
b) Eating 3 large meals each day is not recommended for a client who has COPD, as it can cause abdominal distension and increase pressure on the diaphragm, leading to dyspnea and fatigue. A better option is to eat 5 to 6 small meals throughout the day.
c) Limiting water intake with meals is not advisable for a client who has COPD, as it can cause dehydration and increase the viscosity of secretions, making them harder to expectorate. A better option is to drink at least 2 L of fluids per day, preferably between meals.
d) Reducing protein intake is not beneficial for a client who has COPD, as protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and strength, especially of the respiratory muscles. A better option is to increase protein intake to at least 1.2 g/kg of body weight per day.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Keeping the drainage system below the level of the client's chest prevents backflow of fluid or air into the pleural space and maintains negative pressure in the system.
a) Disconnecting the chest tube from the drainage system during transport is dangerous and can cause pneumothorax, infection, or bleeding. The chest tube should remain connected to the drainage system at all times unless ordered by the provider.
b) Emptying the collection chamber prior to transport is unnecessary and can interfere with accurate measurement of drainage. The collection chamber should be emptied only when it is full or at the end of each shift.
c) Clamping the chest tube prior to transferring the client to a wheelchair is contraindicated and can cause tension pneumothorax, as it prevents air from escaping the pleural space. The chest tube should only be clamped for a brief period when changing the drainage system or checking for air leaks, and only with a provider's order.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.